The Samsung Galaxy Note 3, released in 2013, was a pioneer in the phablet category – smartphones with screens larger than a traditional phone but smaller than a tablet. Packed with a powerful processor, a large display, and the now-iconic S Pen stylus, the Note 3 was a productivity powerhouse in its day. But how does it hold up in 2024? Let’s take a trip down memory lane.
Big and Beautiful (for 2013)
The Note 3 boasted a massive 5.7-inch Full HD Super AMOLED display, a giant compared to the average phone size in 2013. While impressively large then, it feels cumbersome by today’s standards with slimmer bezels and even larger displays on modern phones. However, the AMOLED technology offered vibrant colors and deep blacks, making it great for watching videos or gaming.
The S Pen: A Game-Changer
The S Pen was a defining feature of the Note series, and the Note 3 was no exception. It offered pressure sensitivity and palm rejection, allowing for natural note-taking, sketching, and handwriting recognition. While early iterations compared to the latest S Pens, it was a revolutionary tool for creative expression and productivity in 2013.
Powerhouse in 2013
The Note 3 came equipped with a Snapdragon 800 processor, top-of-the-line for its time. While it could handle most tasks in 2013, modern applications and multitasking would likely push it to its limits. It wouldn’t be ideal for gaming or running heavy apps in 2024.
Battery Life: A Balancing Act
The Note 3 packed a large 3200mAh battery, which was impressive back then. However, the power-hungry processor and large display could drain the battery quickly with heavy use. In 2024, with older battery health, it would likely struggle to get through a full day on a single charge.
Software Stuck in the Past
The Note 3 launched with Android 4.3 Jelly Bean, an operating system no longer supported by Google. This means no security updates or access to the latest features and apps. Using an outdated OS poses significant security risks.
Overall
The Samsung Galaxy Note 3 holds historical significance as a pioneer in the phablet market and the evolution of the S Pen. However, by 2024 standards, its outdated software, processor limitations, and bulky design make it unsuitable for everyday use. It might be a fun collector’s item for tech enthusiasts, but for a modern user, there are much better options available.
